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National Poppy Day is May 26. By wearing poppies on National Poppy Day or any day, we’ll not only honor every service member who died in the name of liberty, freedom and democracy, but provide an opportunity to support veterans for generations to come through this simple red flower.

The Schuylkill Haven American Legion Auxiliary Post 38 will be selling poppies during the month of May as well as through the summer. All money raised is returned to the veterans. We hold a Veterans Dinner every year at Post 38, free to all veterans and a guest. We also visit the Lebanon Veterans Hospital and supply treats and any supplies the veterans may need. We never complain about doing this, but we are still amazed that people ask us ... “What is a poppy?”

After World War I, the poppy flourished in Europe and quickly became a symbol of the sacrifices made by Americans and allied service members around the world. Soldiers from WWI brought home the flowers in memory of the barren landscapes transformed by the sudden growth of wild red poppies among the newly dug graves — unforgettably described in a memorial poem by Canadian Lt. Col. John McCrae:

“If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep. Through poppies grow

In Flanders Fields.”

During the next weeks you may see an auxiliary member asking for a donation for a poppy. Please remember what this little red flower symbolizes and proudly display it in memory of the fallen and to honor those who have fought for freedom.

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